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Swimming: Aer Lingus star on path to Olympics 2012 Page 32

Sports Awards: May’s nominees for Dublin prizes are announced Page 29

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May 26, 2011

WINDFALL: Fingal companies secure €70k in export orders See Page 5

Election results hit by changes – Butler Q MIMI MURRAY

THE Independent Boundary Commission has come under fire this week over changes it made to the constituency of Dublin North in 2008.

Fianna Fail Councillor Darragh Butler has blamed the changes for having a very significant impact on the results of the recent General Election and described them as a form of gerrymandering.

Speaking to the Gazette, Councillor Butler said that 36% of the Swords voter turnout, including Councillor Butler himself, had to vote in the constituency of Dublin West and not Dublin North.

“To have manufactured a situation were the greater Malahide area is considerably bigger than Swords in the constituency of Dublin North, to me, is gerrymandering.”

Full Story on Page 2

Musical magic: Students show off their skills on the violin WILLIAM got a chance to impress our photographer with his skills on the violin during a classical music class at Rolestown NS recently.

William, along with other pupils at the school, have been enjoying an exciting classical music pro-

gramme set up by school Principal Tom Kelleher. They get one hour of lessons each week and it’s definitely paying off, with our photographer being greatly impressed.

Full Gallery on Page 8

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2 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GAZETTE BEAUTY, PAGE 14

RAIL: PROJECT

Top-shop: Hygiene awards

Metro North public meeting SWORDS says no to a U-turn on the Metro North rail project, Socialist TD, Clare Daly said this week.

She is convening a public meeting this T h u r s d a y, M a y 2 6 at 8pm in The Carnegie Court hotel. The meeting is open to a l l r e s i d e n t s i n t e rested in ensuring that the planned METRO project is delivered as promised.

Deputy Daly said: “METRO is vital for Swords and for jobs, it is the best placed of all the transport projects to go ahead, given that it has gone through the planning stages and the amount that has been spent and raised for it so far. Statements from Minister Varadkar and the ESRI indicate that this project may be axed.

“People in Swords, from commuters to the community and local businesses, cannot allow a U-turn. I am urging ever yone to attend this meeting which will be addressed

by Paul Hansard from SIPTU, formerly from the construction sector, who will deal with the important impact that this project can have on putting people back to work in the area.”

O’CIOBHAIN’S SuperValu at Boroimhe in Swords was among three Dublin SuperValu stores presented with the Supreme National Hygiene Award at the 2011 SuperValu Quality Awards ceremony held in Killarney recently.

The Supreme Hygiene Award identifies and rewards retailers that have performed to a consistently high level over a threeyear period. Pictured are Ciaran Levis, Donal O’Ciobhain, O’Ciobhain’s SuperValu, Boroimhe, Swords and Martin Roper.

POLITICS: A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON ELECTION, CLAIMS COUNCILLOR

Butler blasts Boundary Commission on changes Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

THE Independent Boundary Commission has come under fire this week over changes it made to the constituency of Dublin North in 2008.

Fianna Fail councillor Darragh Butler has blamed the changes for having a very significant impact on the results of the recent General Election and described them

as a form of gerrymandering.

Speaking to the Gazette, councillor Butler said that 36% of the Swords voter turnout, including councillor Butler himself, had to vote in the constituency of Dublin West and not Dublin North.

“They artificially created a situation in that the greater Malahide area, including Feltrim and Kinsealy, was considera-

bly larger than Swords in terms of voter turnout in the constituency of Dublin North, and the logic of this needs to be seriously questioned. It is an issue that I plan on raising with the new Minister for the Environment and I will be making it one of my top priorities to have all of Swords reunited for the next General Election and to have this crazy boundary division reversed.

“According to my tally calculations, had Swords not been divided, a united Swords would have correctly made up 27% of the Dublin North voter turnout, but, instead, the boundary changes reduced this significantly to 19%.

“With the voting power of Swords dramatically reduced, the voting power of the greater Malahide area, based on voter turnout, increased

from 21% to 24%, making it the largest voting block in Dublin North.

“To have manufactured a situation where the greater Malahide area is considerably bigger than Swords in the constituency of Dublin North, to me, is gerrymandering, and there is no other word for it.

“The logic of this needs to be seriously questioned. To point out how crazy and unjust this is,

residents on the southern side of the Brackenstown Road, instead of walking across the road to their local school and polling station, literally right in front of their houses, had to get into their cars and drive to River Valley to vote in the constituency of Dublin West.”

According to tally results, 5,392 Swords residents voted in the constituency of Dublin West.

26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

BUSINESS Fourth annual six-day initiative National Enterprise Week launched at BOI outlets THIS week, Bank of Ireland launched its fourth National Enter prise Week, to support and advise local small- and medium-enterprises (SMEs).

The event, from Friday, May 20 to Friday, May 27, which is open to bank customers and non-customers, will consist of advice-led events featuring a number of industry speakers, show-

casing opportunities for SMEs in branches, and a series of CEO/director breakfasts.

The initiative has been running for two years, and is part of the bank’s continued commitment to actively support and finance viable small-tomedium-sized businesses in every sector across the country.

The six-day initiative consists of three core

elements, including a series of advice events, 11 of which will be flagship events, on a wide variety of topics such as exporting, agriculture, women in business and opportunities in IT. The showcasing element, Show Your Business, will enable local businesses to display and sell their wares in the bank’s branches.

Many of the branches

will have themed days for businesses, which include crafts, professional services, “green” service providers, charities and the food industry.

A number of commercial branches will also host a series of CEO/ director breakfasts where a panel of local business leaders will relay their company’s story, share their insights, and

answer questions. There will also be networking opportunities at the end of each event. This event is being held in conjunction with all the branches in Dublin West, including Tallaght, Walkinstown, Newlands Cross, Inchicore, Ballyfermot, Rathfarnham, Terenure, Maynooth, Celbridge, Leixlip, Lucan and Rathcoole.

In North County Dub-

lin, L5 Remote will be showcasing in the Malahide branch. This homebased business is owned

by Justin Reilly and was established earlier this year.

The L5 remote is a device which turns an iPod/iPad/iPhone into a universal remote for TV/ DVD/Stereo use. Justin is the sole supplier of the L5 remote to the Irish market.

GREEN FLAG: CEREMONY

Fourth award for school Q MIMI MURRAY

ST Colmcille’s Girls National School received its fourth Green flag this week.

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Ken Farrell performed the flag-raising ceremony at the school in Swords on May 23.

The flag is awarded on the Travel Theme - sustainable travel – and the Mayor said he wanted to show his appreciation of the work done by the girls to promote sustainable travel.

“This ceremony marks another important achievement in the longrunning campaign to promote good environmental behaviour to young people in Fingal through this simple and extremely effective Green Schools education programme,” a spokesperson for Fingal County Council said.

“Pupils of St Colmcille’s Girls’ National School are leading by example when it comes to showing awareness of the environment. They received their first Green Flag Award in 2005. They successfully renewed their flag on the energy theme in 2007, on the water theme in 2009 and again in 2011 on the travel theme.”

Congratulating the students, the Mayor said that, from his experience with the Green Schools

Programme, “we have been shown time and again that it is our youngest residents who are often the best champions of key environmental messages”.

“The whole school is very committed to the Green School’s programme. This is due, in no small way, to the input of Marian O’Connell, teacher and green schools’ coordinator, who has expertly guided the programme in St Colmcille’s, with the support of all of the staff and Principal Bernadette Murtagh.

The local community is very proud of the school’s green achievements and all have noted traffic reductions on Wednesdays when the pupils have COW (cycle on Wednesday) and WOW (walk on Wednesday) days to reduce their carbon footprints.

“The Green Schools programme is operated in partnership by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce and Local Authorities throughout the country.

The Irish Green-Schools programme is one of the most successful within the participating nations.

“Over 75% of all Irish schools are currently involved and in excess of 1,600 schools have been awarded the Green Flag,” the councilor said.

FastNews Starting up a business?

A PROGRAMME for anyone interested in starting their own business will take place at the Fingal Business Training Centre in Swords next month.

Future businessmen and women seeking advice and knowledge on maximising business success are invited to take part in a five-week course organised by Fingal County Enterprise Board.

Start Your Own Business Programme is a highly practical course aimed at individuals considering setting up a new business this year.

The programme runs over two evenings for five weeks, from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. It explores all core elements needed to set up a business. The subsidised fee for Fingal residents is €200, including course materials.

This programme takes place at Fingal Business Training Centre, FCEB Offices, 23 Main Street, Swords, beginning Tuesday, June 21. For further information call Fingal Enterprise Board on 890 0800 or book a place online at http://www. fingalceb.ie/events/startyour-own-business.

Prince set to play the castle

In honour of Garret: ‘A man of true integrity and intelligence’ FINE Gael TD Alan Farrell on the passing of

Dr Garret FitzGerald: “It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of former Taoiseach Dr Garrett FitzGerald, in the early hours of this morning.

“I had the honour of meeting Dr FitzGerald on my first day as a Deputy in Dail Eireann. He will be remembered as a man of true integrity and intelligence, with the cour-

age to bring Ireland into a modern era.

“Dr FitzGerald leaves behind a remarkable legacy, most importantly his key role in the peace process signing the Anglo Irish Agreement of 1985, which has paved the way for peace on our island.

“I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues.

He will be sorely missed.”

MALAHIDE is to welcome pint-sized pop star Prince to the castle and demesne this July as part of a European tour.

The star is due to perform all his classic hits when he plays to the 35,000 capacity open air gig on July 30.

Prince was due to play Croke Park in 2008 but cancelled a short time before the concert was due to take place, leaving many fans bitterly disappointed.

He last played Ireland in 2002.

The upcoming concert is being organised by POD after the cancellation in 2008 caused a legal dispute with concert promoter MCD.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

FINGAL: STRENGTHENING TRADE OPPORTUNITIES

EVENT Skerries and Balbriggan Information Centres

Delegation to travel to China Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

A DELEGATION travelling from Fingal to China will help strengthen trade and investment opportunities, according to Fingal County Council.

Building on the huge benefits to Ireland’s international reputation that have accrued from the recent visits of Queen Elizabeth II and President Barack Obama, a Fingal delegation left Dublin on May 24 for a five-day visit to Chengdu city, as invited guests of the Chengdu Municipality. Chengdu is specifically looking for a location to establish a China Trade City where they can showcase Chinese products for sale throughout Europe and Fingal provides a unique location with direct access to Dublin Airport and Dublin City.

PJ Howell, Fingal’s Director of Environment, Business and Enterprise, explained how the visit “is a great opportunity for Fingal to make direct business and tourism connections with this major Chinese city”.

“We must be proactive in this economic climate, looking forward with confidence and taking advantage of opportunities to develop business and trading exchanges between Ireland and the world’s fastest growing economy.”

The invitation to visit Chengdu, a city of 11 million people, for the International Sister Cities Week, resulted from

a recent Chengdu trade mission to Dublin and Fingal when the Chengdu authorities met representatives from Fingal County Council, Dublin Airport Authority, Fingal Dublin Chamber of Commerce, and Fingal County Enterprise Board. The delegation also visited Dublin City University and the Techrete plant in Balbriggan, where they were hugely impressed by the quality of the finished concrete products which they would like to replicate in Chengdu.

PJ Howell said on departure: “As home to Dublin Airport, Fingal’s location in the Dublin City Region gives us a significant advantage for foreign investment. This visit to Chengdu will allow us to explore the potential for Chinese enterprises to invest in Fingal, and for Fingal and Irish companies to develop export opportunities to China.”

The Fingal delegation, which has formally been approved by a vote of FCC, includes Cllrs.

Ciaran Byrne and Tom O’Leary, along with Peter Caulfield, Deputy County Manager, PJ Howell, Director of Environment Business and Enterprise and John Woodhouse, Aer Rianta International who is representing the Dublin Airport Authority. All expenses in China for the visit are being covered by the Chengdu authorities as an indication of their enthusiasm to develop trading and tourism links worldwide, and in this case, in Fingal.

Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton TD

Burton is delighted to open new centres Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

MINISTER for Social Protection, Joan Burton TD, visited and met with staff and volunteers of Fingal Citizens Information Service at the Swords Citizens’ Information Centre last week.

Minister Burton also officially opened the Skerries and Balbriggan Citizens’ Information Centres (CICs).

Fingal Citizens’ Information Ser vice provides an information service to the people of north Fingal, from Swords and Skerries to Balbriggan, Malahide and Donaghmede. This area has a population of almost 150,000 peo-

ple and is served by four information centres. In 2010, Fingal’s Citizens Information Ser vice dealt with 24,400 callers and answered a total of 36,300 queries.

Speaking at the Skerries CIC, Minister Burton said: “I am delighted to be here to celebrate the opening of this new office. There has been a Citizens Information Service in Skerries since 1975, which is a credit to the energy and commitment of the local community of Skerries.”

Both Skerries and Balbriggan CICs were short-listed as finalists in the Fingal Chamber of Commerce awards last year - a testament to the high-quality service provided to the local

community. Malahide CIC was awarded Best Community Service, as recognised by the Malahide Chamber of Commerce.

Minister Burton also officially opened the Balbriggan CIC, where she said: “The CIS suppor ts individuals in difficult personal circumstances through the provision of free, confidential and independent information, advice and advocacy.

Nationally, CISs have seen an increase in the complexity of people’s issues and in the levels of distress arising from the current challenging times. This is fully reflected here in Fingal - 47% of enquiries last year related to social

welfare and 10.5% to employment issues.

“However, the commitment of the staff and volunteers to providing a quality service to the people of Fingal is exceptional. A number of the volunteers in Fingal CIS last year received recognition for over 20 years of service to the community as information providers and, in the past two years, the number of volunteers giving their time to Fingal Citizens Information Ser vice has risen by over 30% to 72.”

Minister Burton acknowledged the excellent work of the Citizens Information Board, the statutory agency with responsibility for the

development and support of the network of Citizens Information Services nationally and the Money Advice and Budgeting Services.

T he Minister concluded by wishing the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and all of those involved in Fingal CIS every success in their future work.

“A s we m a r k t h e opening of the new premises, I wish the staff and volunteers of Fingal Citizens Information Ser vice well in their endeavours to further develop a high quality, free, comprehensive and confidential service that will inform, educate, advocate for and empower the people of Fingal.”

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26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

BUSINESS Six Fingal companies secure €70k in export orders

A windfall at Ireland Show in New Jersey Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

SIX Fingal companies that have just returned from the Ireland Show in New Jersey last month have secured direct export orders of $70,000, with $200,000 in combined export orders projected over the next year.

Greg and Mary Whelan, from Irish Linen House in Castleknock; Liam Caulfield, from Crystal Eire, Swords; Philip Gaffney, from O’Gowna Naul; and Malahide-based artist, Alan Kenny, are now planning to travel to New York, under the Fingal’s Finest brand, in a bid to secure even more sales.

The trade mission is led by the Fingal County Enterprise Board.

The craft and design businesses will be flying the flag for Ireland in the US for the second time this year, targeting the lucrative American gifts, homeware and craft markets.

The businesses will be exhibiting at the New York International Gift Fair, which runs from August 13 to 18. Coordinated by the Fingal County Enterprise Board, the trade mission to New York follows the highly successful visit to the Ireland Show in New Jersey

in April, which led to substantial export orders for Fingal companies.

Oisin Geoghegan, CEO of the Fingal County Enterprise Board, highlighted the increasing importance of export sales to small businesses in Ireland: “All of our businesses that travelled to the Ireland Show in April have secured valuable export orders, many for the first time.

Gloss musician in softscape by Alan Kenny

Higher sales

“By breaking into export markets, these companies are able to reach millions of potential customers outside of Ireland, resulting in higher sales and more jobs at home. We are helping our small local businesses gain access to the lucrative American market, as the costs of exhibiting at these trade fairs can be prohibitive to companies who are going it alone.”

The New York International Gift Fair in August is one of the biggest craft fairs globally, with over 35,000 visitors from 85 countries expected to attend over the six days, with strong potential to provide export orders and valuable contacts for the Fingal companies in new markets.

The participants at

Church Road, Malahide by Catherine Dunne, which was at the New Jersey trade fair, and Black T-Lights

by Liam Caulfield

the Ireland Show in April included Pauline Hiney, County Colours; *based on standard industry measurements Crystal Eire, Giftwear; Irish Linen House, Embroidered table linen;

O’Gowna, Ogham script gifts; Art by Eoin, Alan Kenny prints, Privatmark, Heraldic keyrings and Irish Greeting Cards

by Catherine Dunne.

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*based on standard industry measurements

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6 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

MOTORING, PAGE 18

BLITZ: OVER 1,000 TO TAKE PART IN EVENT

SOLO EXHIBITION: LOCAL ARTIST’S HIGH-PROFILE SHOW

Cricket Richard festival is set for underway success AN exciting two-week cricket festival got underway this week with blitzes being held throughout Fingal in Dublin 15, Swords/Malahide and Rush.

There will be more than 1,000 boys and girls from local schools taking part over the two weeks.

The Swords/Malahide Cricket Blitz is being hosted by Malahide Cricket Club and will run from 10am to 2pm. The 4th class event was held on Tuesday, May 24, and the 5th class event will be on Tuesday, May 31. Students from St Andrew’s NS, Pope John Paul’s NS, Oliver Plunkett’s NS (Malahide), Old Borough NS, Swords Educate Together, St Cronin’s NS, Holy Family NS, St Colmcille’s BNS (Swords) and Burrow NS (Sutton) will

take part.

The Rush Cricket Blitz is being hosted

by Rush Cricket Club (10am - 2pm). The 4th class event took place on Wednesday, May 25, and the 5th class event will be on Wednesday, June 1 with students from Rush NS, St Catherine’s NS (Rush), St Brendan’s NS (Loughshinny), Milverton NS, Balrothery NS, St Patrick’s NS (Skerries), Balbriggan Educate Together and St George’s NS (Balbriggan). This tournament, sponsored by the Dolan family from Rush, has now been running for over ten years.

For more information on the Fingal Festival of Cricket, contact Reinhardt Strydom, Fingal Cricket Development Officer on 087-982-3402 or strydom@live.com

Planning appeal for refurbishment AN Bord Pleanala has received a planning appeal from Total Fitness in Clare Hall seeking permission to carry out refurbishment works to the existing health centre.

The lands are adjacent to Clare Hall Shopping Centre on the Malahide Road and

the application is for the refurbishment of the existing health and fitness centre to include the reinstatement of the original restaurant use, reduction of car spaces, from 292 to 156 and a new pedestrian access.

The case is due to be decided by September 15.

in New York Q ERIC CRAMPTON

swords@gazettegroup.com

NORTH County Dublin artist Richard Hearns is set for success in New York this summer when he will hold his next solo show.

H e a r n s m ove d t o Westport in 2010, and is currently painting with typical energy out of a studio at the Custom House.

With a growing number of fans and collectors near and far, his next solo show takes place in the high-profile art world of New York from the end of May, when Manhattan will get a fresh glimpse of Mayo landscape.

Hearns’ current work focuses on still life and landscape subjects.

“Since I’ve come to Mayo, the magnificent landscape here has been a true inspiration”, he explains.

He paints outdoors en plein air - as much

as possible, as well as working on larger studio paintings.

“What I love about painting is the alchemy that can be achieved: the coming together of form, colour and atmosphere into something beautiful and enduring.”

Enthusiasm

Hearns’ energy and enthusiasm for painting is plain to see, and his paintings to date have attracted collectors from as far away as Australia, the Middle East, mainland Europe and the USA, with successful showings at the Oisin Gallery in Dublin and a sell-out show at Mayo’s Cong Art Gallery.

His work is available for all to see on the internet, and he is always keen to welcome visitors to his studio.

For more information on Richard Hearns and his work, see: www. richardhearns.com

Malahide artist Richard Hearns

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‘What I love about painting is the alchemy that can be achieved: the coming together of form, colour and atmosphere into something beautiful and enduring’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

SKILLS Women in Business Network hold meeting

Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL County Enterprise Board’s Women in Business Network will hold the fourth meeting of 2011 on May 31.

Leanne Papaioannou, managing director of Chilli Pepper Marketing, will talk to over 40 local Fingal women entrepreneurs and business owners about her area of expertise.

Find the Marketing Gap in Your Business, will assist existing and aspiring entrepreneurs in understanding why customer retention and loyalty is the key factor to consider when developing a marketing plan for business.

Leanne, a specialist in customer retention and loyalty, will show how a simple shift in thinking, from going after new customers to looking after existing ones, can not only save money, but open eyes to a wealth of opportunities that will lead to future growth and business success.

She is an international marketing consultant and an experienced professional speaker, specialising in innovative direct mail, customer retention and loyalty marketing

strategies. One of the few specialist practitioners in the Irish market, she has helped forward-thinking companies achieve new heights by following her strategies.

Through the implementation of such strategies, she won three awards at the 2011 An Post Direct Marketing, one in 2010 and two in 2009, including the prestigious Grand --------------------------

‘Our membership continues to grow and includes established and aspiring small business owners based in Fingal, many of whom come from a non commercial background’ --------------------------

Eve Bulman, network manager

--------------------------

Prix. A further two clients were nominated for the Irish Marketing Institute AIM Awards in 2007 and 2009.

A variety of female entrepreneurs from Fingal will also take the opportunity to showcase

their products and services to the group on the night – which is expected to be over 40 women.

According to Network manager, Eve Bulman, the network plays an important role in helping its members develop their general business management skills.

“Our membership continues to grow and includes established and aspiring small business owners based in Fingal, many of whom come Leanne Papaioannou, managing director of Chilli Pepper Marketing from a non-commercial background.

“We aim to provide practical, educational supports at our events alongside quality networking opportunities.

This makes all the difference for businesses operating on a smaller scale.”

This event is open to members and first-time visitors at no cost. Taking place in the Carlton Airport Hotel on the Old Airport Road, registration begins at 6.30pm and the event kicks off at 7pm.

To book a place at this event, or for further information about the Fingal Women in Business Network, contact Network Manager Eve Bulman at wib@fingalceb.ie or by visiting www.fingalceb. ie/wib.

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8 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

EVENT Rolestown NS students enjoy their music class

Conor, Ciara, Etan, William and Andrew. Picture: Peter Doyle

The magic of music FTER a visit to a school in Crumlin where he was impressed by their musical teaching, Rolestown NS school principal Tom Kelleher set up an exciting classical music programme all of his own. The scheme has been proving very popular with pupils who are taught the violin for an hour each week.

On Wednesdays the school also has orchestra, which is optional, and they are planning to go on a mini tour in June to show off their repertoire.

A

Emily performs

Conor, Theo and Eoin

Dorothy Conaghan NCH; Bjarke Gundersen, music teacher, and Suzanne McAllister, senior infants William shows off his skills. Pictures: Conor O Mearain

class teacher

26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

EVENT Wear Red Day for the Irish Heart Foundation

Spanish Students, Maria Labarta and Maria Alvarez celebrating Wear Red Day

Second Years, Megan Egan, Jessa Dyer, Ciara Murray and Niamh Crilly

Roisin Long, Deputy Head Girl for 2011-2012; Sophie O’Kelly; Terence Flanagan, TD; Pauline Griffin, Organiser of Wear Red Day; Sophie Preston and Lauren Fitzpatrick, head Girl for 2011-2012

St Marys’ fundraising efforts are red-hot T Mary’s Secondary School, Baldoyle, held a Wear Red Day recently in order to raise funds for The Irish Heart Foundation, which has sponsored Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training for all Transition Year students by supplying practice models for each student.

S

The Wear Red Day also generated significant awareness of the value of CPR and the work of the Irish Heart Foundation. The fundraising was organised by Ms Pauline Griffin. The Wear Red Day was a non-uniform day in which students wore something red instead of their normal uniform. The

Pauline Griffin, organiser and Senator Avril Power

Irish Heart Foundation supplied Red T-shirts for the Senior Prefects who collected the student contributions.

The students made for contribution for the privilege of wearing red on the non-uniform day. Overall, the excellent sum of €645 was raised, a great achievement!

Pauline Griffin, organiser, Maureen O’Sullivan, TD and compere

First Years with Shauna Hayes, Sixth Year and First Year Prefect, in centre

Years celebrating Wear Red Day

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 11

ASLAN Dublin heroes make time for Champions League

Working as hard as ever, nearly 30 years on PAUL HOSFORD

NOBODY really notices a 29th birthday. It’s a bit like having a big party for a 20th or a 15th, it’s just not the done thing.

With that in mind, it would be easy for a band like Aslan, just a year shy from celebrating their 30th year as a band, to take the foot off the gas for the 2011 calendar year.

But really, that is not, and never has been, the style of the Dublin heroes.

Their voracious appetite for live shows is legendary, with Aslan arguably covering more ground now than was covered in the Showband era.

With that much effort gone into gigging, it must surely get old. Not so, says the group’s guitarist, Billy McGuinness, who, along with Christy Dignam, Joe Jewell, Alan Downey and Rodney O’Brien, will rock the Clarion in Liffey Valley this Saturday.

“Not at all. We’re about

to enter our 30th year as a band and there is only one reason for that. We gig everywhere because we love playing live. We love the buzz that we get from playing our music live.

“We play a lot of places that other bands would ignore. When you play places, like Midleton in Cork, or Donegal towns that wouldn’t get a lot of gigs, people appreciate it.

“It means that when you’re playing a bigger gig – a Vicar St, Olympia or Point for example – people will come out for it.”

The mantra of play anywhere and everywhere is one that many bands are beginning to adopt in an Irish music scene more and more reliant on live shows for both exposure and money, but most bands will never see some of the venues that Aslan have.

“I suppose the weirdest gigs we’ve ever played were in Mountjoy and

Aslan, top, Billy McGuinness, above left, and Christy Dignam Wheatfield Prisons.

“We were asking when they wanted us, the warden told us we could play whenever, the audience weren’t going anywhere.

“We also played a gig for Irish troops in Kosovo, which was odd. We really enjoyed it, but couldn’t go anywhere because there was still fighting going on.

“But really all gigs are brilliant. Even the last

time we played the Clarion, Bernard Dunne was there, we had a drink with him and that was great.”

The ability to appeal across age lines, as well as to the Irish Diaspora, are also key reasons for Aslan’s enduring stint at the top of the Irish music pile.

“The age range that we see can be nine to 90 and we see so many young people at gigs, knowing

the lyrics to our songs.

“Anywhere there’s Irish people, we can play. We did a tour of Australia last year, we were playing in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and that’s because anywhere you go, there’s an Irish bar that will either have Crazy World or This Is on it.

“I think we’ve done everything, including break-up!

Continues on Page 12

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12 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

COMMENT Leader of the opposition reconnects with the party

A magnificent challenge for Fianna Fail

MICHEÁL MARTIN TD

FOLLOWING a difficult General Election, Fianna Fail faces a magnificent challenge in the months ahead, particularly in Dublin.

I believe that we will meet this challenge, renewing the party and reconnecting with communities across our capital city, because Fianna Fáil stems from a great tradition. It stems from a tradition where the needs of the people and the country come first. It will be no easy task, but it will be done.

I have been the leader of Fianna Fáil for less than four months and, in that period, I have travelled the length and

breadth of Ireland. I’m currently meeting members of the party and the public all across Dublin in every constituency.

The message I am getting from the thousands of members and supporters is loud and clear.

It must now be our objective to do our outmost to rectify past errors and to secure a better future for every single person on this island.

If we return Fianna Fail to the core principles that for so many years won the support and loyalty of the Irish people, we will not only renew our party, we will renew a vital, positive force in the life of our nation.

For example, in the area of education, Fianna Fáil was founded as the party

of the ordinary working person 85 years ago and became a vehicle for educational opportunity and social advancement across Ireland. Almost every major milestone in education expansion at all levels owes its origins to visionary Ministers for Education, such as Paddy Hillery and Donogh O’Malley, to name but a few. As the new leader of Fianna Fail, educational advancement for all citizens is at the core of my political philosophy.

I want Fianna Fáil to be the great party it once was and to be in touch and responsive to the needs of people in Dublin and across Ireland.

For this reason, I am determined to open up the Fianna Fáil Party and

ASLAN

30 years of music Continued from Page 11

Micheal Martin TD talking with Cllr Cormac Devlin

I want to see more young people a nd women becoming active in our organisation.

Eamon de Valera said when Fianna Fáil was founded: “We hope in particular that the young people of the country, the young men and women, who have not yet definitely affiliated themselves to any political organisation, will join Fianna Fáil and use it as

a medium through which they will give their services to the community and to the nation.”

I am determined that, in today’s Ireland, Fianna Fail will nurture and promote the involvement of more young people in politics. In Dublin this will be particularly important in the years ahead.

For people interested in making a positive differ-

ence in their community, and for those who want to improve the quality of life in this country, my message is clear: Fianna Fáil is the party of opportunity - where you can help shape policy and where you can make a real difference. Fianna Fáil wants to hear from you. Email your ideas or get information on joining the party at renewal@fiannafail.ie

“I think people like us because we’re so real.

Ever y mistake we’ve made, we’ve been honest about. People see X-Factor, and those people aren’t real.

“People see everything we’ve gone through, we’re honest that we’ve made mistakes. Christy’s book, and the Aslan book, are both very real. And then people see us give 110% to everything we do.”

At the minute, it is all systems go for Aslan, as they prepare to mark an historic 30th year in the business, looking to “tell the story of Aslan”.

These celebrations will be marked with a film, a new studio album and, possibly, a 30th anniversary gig.

Rodney O’Brien, Joe Jewell and Alan Downey

“We want the album to be perfect so we’re taking our time over it. Years ago, we’d lock ourselves away for weeks at a time to do an album, but we can now take our time over it and do days here and there.

“It would be nice to mark the 30th anniversary.”

Aslan play the Clarion Liffey Valley on Saturday, May 28, taking to the stage after the Champions League final. Tickets are €15 and available from the hotel on 01 628 5000.

On July 2, they take to the stage in Vicar St, with tickets available from Ticketmaster, priced at €33.60.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Ultimate Girl’s night out in May AN Ultimate Girl’s Night Out will be held in Embody Wellness Centre on May 27.

Free mini-massages, tarot and angel cards, five-minute make-up transformations, winetasting and cool cupcakes will all be available on the night.

Admission is free and all are welcome from 7pm.

For information, phone Grainne on 01 8076795 or find out more on www. embody.ie

LOCAL MATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

Edited by Dawn Love

Keeping skin healthy and radiant the natural way O you want to be a natural beauty? With a reported 60% of what we put onto our skin absorbed into the bloodstream, it’s easy to see why Hollywood stars, such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Anniston, are big fans of natural skincare brands.

Amongst the most popular is leading German range, Dr Hauschka.

For more than 40 years Hauschka, which is free from synthetic chemical fragrances, colours and preservatives, has established itself as one of the leading natural skincare brands.

Already famed for its Rose Day Cream, Hauschka recently launched its Melissa Day Cream (€23.85) which

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is designed to help combat combination skin prone to shine. Its daily moisturiser is perfect for those with oily and sensitive skin, helping it regain a healthy balance by stimulating the skin’s natural activity.

The fast-absorbing, oil-free moisturiser with lemon balm provides lasting hydration and oil control, leaving you with a balanced matte complexion. It features other ingredients, including kidney vetch and carrot designed to help smooth the skin’s surface to minimise pores, while witch hazel and revitalising daisy helps refine the skin and leave your complexion soft and even.

In addition to its Melissa Day Cream, Hauschka has also released

three new additions to its Regenerating range this summer, including Regenerating Eye Cream (€65), Regenerating Neck and Decollete Cream (€60) and Regenerating Body Moisturiser (€40).

According to Hauschka, the Regenerating Eye Cream formulation keeps the delicate skin around the eyes, which is thinner than the rest of the face, smooth and supple and minimises the onset of early wrinkles.

The company, which also includes Madonna and Julia Roberts as its devotees, says its Regenerating range helps slow down the skin’s ageing process and restores your natural radiance. Other products include its oilfree Regenerating Serum and Regenerating Day Cream.

Some 60% of what we put onto our skin is absorbed into the bloodstream, so natural products are an option for giving skin a natural glow

Tantastic

And with your skin in tip-top natural shape, it’s time to make sure its Tantastic.

Founded by Dragons’ Den success, Noelle O’Connor, TanOrganic, has is a 100% natural moisturising fake tan.

Noelle originally set about creating her range of products when she couldn’t find a 100% natural moisturising tan on the market.

“Being a pale, fairskinned, freckled Irish woman, and having worn fake tan for over 20 years, I noticed my skin was drying out prematurely.

I did not notice it on my face, as I had only ever applied fake tans to my body.

“Being a beauty therapist, I have always looked after my skin. On my quest for a sunless, tanning product that was nourishing, moisturising and healing on the skin,

Dr Hauschka Regenerating Range

I noticed there were little or none. There were very few organic tans and, on closer research, there were no 100% natural tans. Hence TanOrganic was born. I spent 17 months and a lot of cash researching and testing formulas until the final formula w a s c r a c ke d and that is now TanOrganic.”

On the increasing number of people turning to organic fake tans, Noelle says: “Consumers are becoming increasingly ingredient-conscious

these days. We are now in the same place with organic cosmetics as we were with organic food in the 1990s, and the trend is growing year on year.

“Like food, people want pure ingredients and the knowledge that what they are using is natural and organic. Many clients have allergies to mainstream tanning products and they can cause irritation, where natural and organic tans can be worn with nearly always no reactions.

100% natural TanOrganic

“Because TanOrganic is genuinely 100% natural and organic there are no synthetic ingredients in the tan. There are also no perfumes, which are the number one cause of allergies in skin care.

“I am constantly working on improving my formulae and love to get feedback from my consumers as to what they like and don’t like,” she said.

And, on people who may be dubious about trying organic tanning treatments, Noelle says: “Unfortunately, we have to educate them about the negatives of not using natural and organic, and that many ingredients in mainstream tan can be bad for the skin and cause undue irritations and allergies.”

TanOrganic is priced €34.99 per 240ml bottle.

For more information on TanOrganic visit www. tanorganic.com For details on your nearest stockist of Dr Hauschka log onto www. drhauschkaireland.ie.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: WHEN, AND WHEN NOT, TO INTERFERE WITH FLEDGLING BIRDS AND NESTS

Time for baby birds to leave their nest H I S we e k I ’ ve received many calls regarding f ledgling birds. This morning alone, I received at least five and all from inexperienced members of the public who’ve discovered that, hey, it’s summer and it’s the time of year when birds tend to breed, with fledglings appearing in some of the most peculiar places.

Of course, all of these caring callers wanted to know how to help these cute, fluffy little “abandoned” creatures!

First of all readers, thank you so much for your calls and for your concerns regarding fledgling birds, we really do appreciate them. As a humane society, and the country’s oldest and largest animal rescue shelter, we strive to promote the compassionate treatment of all animals – baby birds included.

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However, the fact is, the baby birds don’t need your interference.

They are not as helpless and clumsy as they look and for you, a human, to intervene is not necessarily the best course of action to take.

So, if you’re a concerned citizen who happens to come across a baby bird, here’s what you should do!

Difficult though it is…

LEAVE IT ALONE! It is not abandoned. If you discover a nest, under no circumstances should you touch or move it. This will cause the parents to abandon their babies and such an action by you could be deemed to be illegal.

A Few Facts

Young birds usually leave the nest about two weeks after hatching, just before they’re able to fly.

And round about now,

we’re nearing the end of the first batch, with the second clutch about to be laid.

The fledgling birds will have all, or at least most, of their feathers and will be mobile enough to walk, run and hop from branch to branch. They are being fed by the parent bird, who will not be far away collecting food and will not return to the babies until you, the human intruder, has gone away.

Please bear in mind that the parent bird, (and usually in the bird world it’s both mum and dad who take care of the babies) will encourage the fledglings to disperse into different areas or hideaways, but they still carry on feeding and taking care of them.

They move the babies around because they know predators, such as other birds, cats and foxes will attack them, so

Please bear in mind that the parent bird will encourage fledglings, like this baby thrush, to disperse into different areas but will still take care of them

they try to limit the risk and hide them in various locations around your home and garden. This is a natural system and it has worked successfully for thousands of years.

Do not touch them, move them, or try to “rescue” them.

If you’ve got a cat or a dog who is a danger to the baby birds, then keep your pet indoors or on a lead – this is a temporary measure, the birds will be gone in a couple of days.

And another thing …

If you come across an owl or a hawk that’s on the ground, is alert, is

standing and has feathers, even a few, do not approach. Mum and dad are nearby and teaching him to hunt for ground insects. However, if he’s still there the following day, something may be wrong, so speak to your local vet or animal rescue shelter before you intervene.

If there’s grounded waterfowl in your area – geese, ducks, etc., this is normal. They’ll head off within a few hours of hatching, so don’t worry if you spot little downy babies running around – it’s normal, but you must leave them alone.

I know members of the public have good intentions but, think about it, would you want your new-born babies taken away from you? No! Neither do the birds’ parents.

So, when should you interfere?

• If the bird is clearly in harm’s way, is on a road and there’s a danger of being knocked down, then gently move him to safety to the nearest hedge/bush/garden, but no further and then walk away.

• The bird is clearly injured/incapacitated – call your local vet or res-

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

cue shelter or the Dublin SPCA – 01-4994700 for help and advice.

• You know for a fact that both parents have been killed or are incapacitated. Again, call your nearest vet/rescue shelter for advice and help.

• If a wing appears substantially droopier than the other wing, if the bird is unable to grip with one foot or if there’s blood, then seek professional help from your vet or animal shelter.

For more information, log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

16 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

OPINION An historic day in an extraordinary week for Dublin

Yes, he most certainly can!

MIMI MURRAY

IS FEIDIR Linn. Yes we can. Those were the words that sent the most rousing of cheers through an already captive audience listening to the words of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama.

He took to the stage with his wife, the First Lady, Michelle Obama, around 5.45pm on Monday and the crowd went wild for the man whose great, great, great grandfather first set off from Moneygall in County Offaly over 150 years ago in order

to seek his fortune.

The crowd had queued from around 12pm, while some hardy souls spent the night on College Green, eagerly awaiting the man who made history by becoming the first black president of the United States of America.

A cheery crowd were kept upbeat by an array of Irish artists, actors and sports people, all introduced by RTE’s Ryan Tubridy.

Whilst waiting for the main man, several musicians, including Ryan Sheridan, Imelda May, Westlife and the unstop-

pable Jedward warmed up the crowd, which was good as there was a wind blowing on the day that made the First Lady’s hair resemble the blond duo’s wacky quiffs.

The crowd waited with bated breath, wondering if they were going to have an opportunity to shake the hand of someone who has made history.

Tubridy, who spoke excitedly about Obama’s visit, kept giving the crowd regular updates on his impending arrival.

In the meantine Daniel Day Lewis, Stephen Rea and Brendan Gleeson

said a few words or recited poetry. Saoirse Ronan also drew huge cheers from the crowd.

The President’s seal, seen so often on television and in the movies, was placed on the speaking platform and the audience knew it was almost time.

Then, quite suddenly Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his wife Fionnuala walked on to the stage, and the weather-beaten masses knew the wait was almost over.

Kenny gave a rousing speech and looked as proud as punch as he

introduced the most powerful man in the world to the waiting Irish audience.

Barack and Michelle walked on stage, holding hands and looking happy and relaxed. Perhaps it was the drop of the black stuff that he had sampled earlier in Moneygall but Obama couldn’t stop grinning and protectively rubbed Michelle’s shoulder as Kenny finished his speech.

The chant “Obama, Obama, Obama” rippled through the crowd and finally everyone got their first words from one of the world’s great orators.

“Hello, Dublin, hello, Ireland. My name is Barack Obama – of the Moneygall Obamas. And I've come home to find the apostrophe that we lost somewhere along the way.” Yes, the man certainly knows how to charm an audience.

From there he went on to say that both our nations have faced great trials in recent years, “including recessions so severe that many of our people are still trying to fight their way out”.

However, he left the audience with this parting shot: “Ireland… if anybody ever tells you that your problems are too big, or your challenges are too great, that we can't

President Barack Obama charms the Dublin crowd

do something, that we shouldn't even try, think about all that we've done together. Remember that, whatever hardships the winter may bring, springtime is always just around the corner. And if they keep on arguing with you,

just respond with a simple creed: Is féidir linn.

Yes, we can. Yes, we can.

Is féidir linn.”

With that note the crowd started to disperse, looking weather-beaten but with a lighter spring to their step.

GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com

General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com

Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com

News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com

Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com

Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteGAMING GAMING WIN a Kinect sensor T for Xbox

HE Gazette is continuing its incredible Xbox Kinect sensor competition this week, as we give away the second of four prizes.

Kinect for Xbox 360 brings games and entertainment to life in extraordinary new ways, without using a controller With Kinect, technology evaporates, letting the natural magic in all of us shine. Controller-free gaming means full-body play.

Kinect responds to how you move. So, if you have to kick, then kick. If you have to jump, then jump. You already know how to play.

All you have to do is get off the couch, “plug in” to your Xbox 360 console, and jump in to experience game play.

Kinect Sports allows you to say goodbye to the buttons and controllers, and play six full sports games just as you always

have, using your entire body.

Become the heavyweight champ of the living room with boxing, or take to the sand with some high-flying beach volleyball action.

Everyone With soccer, field and track events, and even bowling, Kinect Sports has something for everyone.

Meanwhile, Kinect Adven-

WIN A KINECT SENSOR AND TWO KINECT GAMES

To be in with a chance to win a Kinect Sensor and two Kinect games, to use with your XBox 360 console, just answer the following question.

How many adventures are contained in Kinect Adventures?

Post your answer to Kinect Competition, Gazette Group Newspapers, Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan, Co Dublin.

Alternatively, you can email competition@gazettegroup.com. All entries must be received before Wednesday, June 1.

tures will have you jumping, dodging, and kicking your way through 20 pulse-pounding adventures, set in exotic locations around the world.

Kinect Adventures gets you to work with your friends and navigate through roaring rapids, challenge obstacle courses, and even save a leaky underwater laboratory.

The spirit of adventure awaits!

LAST WEEK’S WINNER: Congratulations to Clive Stone of Dublin 15, who was the Week One winner of the Xbox Kinect Sensor and games

18 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs MERCEDES BENZ HAS NEW VAN FINANCE DEAL:

MERCEDES-BENZ in Ireland has launched a new van purchase finance scheme, which opens up a line of funding that would assist small businesses planning to upgrade their transport fleet.

The finance scheme has been designed to unblock the lending logjam that has prevented many owners from acquiring or replacing their van fleet.

This new scheme provides finance over periods from three to five years, upon payment of a “modest” deposit. Confined to the purchase of new vehicles only, the scope of the plan can also be extended to include maintenance costs. Mercedes-Benz van dealers can facilitate buyers by agreeing a residual value that would be placed on each vehicle after the finance term has expired.

NEW SAAB DEAL WITH CHINA’S PANGDA AUTOMOBILE: IT’S been a difficult few weeks for Saab and for its owners the Dutch Spyker Cars NV. Last week, they had a deal with one Chinese investor, which fell through at the last minute.

The latest news is that China’s Pangda Automobile Trade Co Ltd has entered into a deal, which it said would secure Saab’s medium-term funding needs and with EU approval.

The deal involves an agreement to buy Saab vehicles for as much as €45 million and to take a 24% equity stake in Spyker for a total of €65 million.

The new Lexus CT200h is a premium smaller car that has a quality-build feeling to it in terms of smoothness. With an entry price of €28,980 it’s still competitive in price and running costs with some of the other turbo-diesels on the market.

Lexus hatches CT200h

MICHAEL MORONEY has been out in the new Lexus CT200h, which is a compact, hybrid petrol hatchback and here he gives his verdict EXUS and quality have been synonymous, but that emphasis has been at the more expensive and bigger car end of the market. Enter the CT200h, a car with more compact dimensions that’s still comfortable on the quality street.

This new car is a hatchback that retains the Lexus premium badge. Lexus see the car as a solid competitor to smaller diesel cars, where running-cost efficiency is so important.

I had seen photographs of the car long before I took it for a lengthy test drive. The photographs didn’t give the feeling for its size and style – it was a little smaller than

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SPECS: LEXUS CT200H HYBRID Top speed: 180 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 10.3 sec Economy: 26.3 km/litre (3.8l/100km) CO2 emissions: 87g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 3 years Entry Price: €28,450

I had expected, a little less SUV or crossover in appearance.

This is a neat, five-door hatchback that has all of the features you expect, topped off with Lexus smooth and very quiet driving style. To me, it’s a real competitor with some of the current diesel-powered small hatchback cars.

Like all Lexus models, there’s loads of technology in the CT200h. I would prefer if they could think of a better name – there’s no ring to the CT200h, it just doesn’t roll easily off the tongue.

The CT200h is a petrol hybrid car designed to compete against the likes of the diesel-powered Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and even the Volkswagen Golf. Lexus has set new and impressive petrolefficiency standards with this car.

The 1.8-litre petrol engine is incredibly smooth to drive. The hybrid system engages without effort to give a power boost that’s lively but not trend-setting.

But you will notice

when you want the engine and hybrid drive to work together; the car sort of roars at you, but not in a strong way, more as a way of telling you that it’s doing some work. That’s the only time that you realise that there’s an engine under the bonnet.

The car scores well in terms of economy.

With an achievable figure of 26.3 km/litre (3.8l/100km) this is the envy of diesel power.

In terms of running costs, the CT200h is a match for modern diesel engines.

Add to that the low annual tax rate of €104, plus a once-a-year service or 10,000km, and you have a car that can com-

pete in cost terms with the diesel competition.

And all that is achieved with a 0 to 100km/hr rating of 10.3 seconds – that’s fast enough for most of us. That’s a shade slower than the BMW 118d, Audi A3 2.0-litre TD Sportback and the VW Golf 2.0-litre TD, but there’s only a mere second in the difference.

I took the CT200h for some lengthy drives covering almost 600km through a range of roads.

The outstanding feature is its smoothness. The comfort is good, if not a shade soft, on some of the smaller rural roads – that’s not really a complaint.

The car drives through an automatic gearbox

that’s controlled by a short stubby lever on the centre console. I found that it was very sensitive and took a little getting used to, and then it was a pleasure.

The car is smaller than I had expected from the photographs. I found that the headroom front and rear was a bit tight.

Rear legroom is not over-generous either, but that’s the same for the BMW 118d, with which it competes.

This car can truly compete in purchase price, and running costs, with the diesel competition.

The car is competitively priced at €28,450 or £23,485 in Nothern Ireland, but it just doesn’t seem to look expensive.

Audi Ireland turns the sod for new Audi dealership in Sligo AUDI Ireland turned the sod for a new Audi dealership in Sligo scheduled to open at the end of the year. Audi Sligo will be owned and operated by Kevin and Neil Connolly, who have invested €5 million in the dealership, which hopes to create 20 new jobs in the

Sligo region.

The future Sligo dealership is major part of a five-year investment plan by Audi in Ireland to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015. Audi is undertaking a restructuring of the franchise retail network with

a collective investment of €80 million over the next three years. This will result in a nationwide network of 10 dedicated Audi dealerships servicing the whole country.

Andrew Doyle, managing director, Audi Ireland said: “Together with our

franchise partners, we will continue to make significant long-term investments in people, facilities and systems, here in Ireland. Today’s announcement is an important part of our drive to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015.”

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY STRAFFAN: FIVE-BEDROOM HOME FOR ASKING PRICE OF €560,000

A Gate to comfort and security

Number 2, Texas Lane, Malahide

MALAHIDE: ASKING PRICE OF €545,000

Round up a property coup on Texas Lane PROPERTY Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers are bringing 2 Texas Lane, Chalfont, Malahide, a four-bedroom semi-detached family home offering bright and generously proportioned accomodation and a flexible layout, to the market with an asking price of €545,000.

The property has been extended thoughout and is situated in a much-sought after location.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with guest wc, which has a cermaic tiled floor, garage conversion with wooden floors, two reception rooms and an extended kitchen/breakfast area which has fitted wall and floor units - all electrical appliances are included in the sale.

The landing offers access to the attic, and the upper level features the four bedrooms in the property, the larger of which have built-inn wardrobes, while all have timber flooring.

The family bathroom has a tiled floor and walls and a Triton T90i shower.

Thr garden of Texas Lane has a deck area, a timber garden shed, and is fully walled.

To the front, there is a cobblelock driveway as well as a side entrance.

Located beside Malahide estuary, the property is within walking distance of Malahide village, local schools and the Dart station.

Viewing is by appointment, which can be arranged by contacting Darren Kelly of Property Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers on 01 8462752.

COONAN Estate Agents are bringing Number 52, Straffan Gate in Straffan village to the market for an asking price of €560,000.

The property is a fivebedroom dual-aspect detached house, located in a sought-after development in the heart of Straffan village.

Finished to the highest standards and presented in pristine condition throughout, this property boasts large, bright spacious living accommodation.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall, with reception area and guest bathroom, sitting room with bay window,

Number 52, Straffan Gate has an asking proce of €560,000

feature fireplace with a granite hearth, dining room with a double bay window, and a kitchen/ dining room with solid wooden f loor, patio door to garden, recessed lights, wall and floor units, a granite work-

top, NEFF extractor fan, hob and double oven, and an integrated dishwasher.

The first f loor features a large master bedroom with built-in wardrobe and en suite with shower, four more

bedroom with builtin wardrobes, and the family bathroom.

The property also has wooden, double-glazed windows throughout, stainless-steel light fittings and sockets, a pressurised shower sys-

tem and a maintenancefree exterior.

The property features a large south-facing garden and a cobble-lock driveway with parking spaces for up to three cars.

Located only a short walk from Straffan Village and only a short drive to the University town of Maynooth, Celbridge and Clane, and only a 40-minute drive to Dublin City, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Coonan Estate Agents can be contacted to arrange a viewing of Straffan Gate on 01-6286128 or 01-6288400.

ADAMSTOWN: ATTRACTIVE PAYMENT PLAN OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Discerning buyers drawn to bargains FOR discerning property buyers looking for real value, Castlethorn’s popular development at Adamstown Square in Lucan is well worth a visit.

The price of a two-bed apartment is €135,000, and it boasts an extremely high level of specification, is located close to the main attractions of Adamstown, including local shops, schools and its train station.

For those looking for a larger home, there are new, three-bed duplex units located on the second and third floors, with over 1,000 sq ft accommodation and a spacious balcony at an asking price of €165,000.

Similarly-sized ground-floor, three-bed duplexes with private amenity areas start from €185,000. In addition, there are a small number

of three- and four-bed houses available from €235,000 and €249,950 respectively.

In total there are six fully-fitted showhomes on view at Adamstown Square, ranging from two-beds right up to fourbed townhouses, so there is plenty of choice for the price-conscious homehunter.

Adamstown Square has an excellent level of specification in all the homes. All master bedrooms are very generous in size and are fitted with en suites.

In addition, purchasers will benefit from modern, fitted kitchens, complete with oven/hob, fridgefreezer, dishwasher and washer/dryer. All homes are designed to comply with Sustainable Energy Ireland’s House of Tomorrow programme in terms

There are a number of home types at Adamstown Square

of their energy- efficient ratios and the BER rating of each home is very high.

Taking cognisance of the difficulties and concern’s that today’s house purchasers may be facing, Castlethorn is providing a wide range of options that will assist the homeowner in purchasing their new home, including a home-

deposit advance option, which lets purchasers reserve their home today with no deposits payable until closing, and Easi steps is also available, which lets purchasers move in today and pay monthly instalments for a period of up to two years.

These instalments are then taken off the purchase price of the home

when the purchaser closes the sale.

The Adamstown marketing suite and show units are open everyday, weekends from 3-5 and weekdays from 10-5.

For further information on the great value available at Adamstown Square phone Leah’ys 6011800 or log onto www. castlethorn.ie

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Sarah Carberry, Secretchic.ie

No secret to Sarah’s online dress success SARAH Carberry, of Secretchic.ie, an Irish Online Designer Dress Rental service, grew up in Malahide and now lives in Portmarnock.

She went to school in Scoil Iosa in Malahide and then to The Institute on Lesson Street. Sarah started her career in PR six years ago with McGovern Public Relations, one of the longest established marketing and PR firms in Ireland, and is an industry she is still involved with. “PR is a passion and I love what I do but, like most girls, I love fashion!”

Two years ago she was at various events and weddings and was spending a lot of money for dresses she usually only wore once. “I thought to myself, there has to be a way you can rent dresses.” But, at that time, she was not aware of any other options. It was then she came up with the idea on an online rental store – and www.secretchic.ie was born. No one seemed to be doing it in Ireland, but it is big business in the USA and UK. Secretchic.ie features casual and evening styles (sizes 6-16) from labels such as Just Cavalli, Vivienne Westwood, John Galliano, By Malene Birger, Juicy Couture, D&G and many more.

SAVING FOR YOUR CHILDREN Q – We have two girls aged seven and five.

We have not made any provision for their education, though they will both be going to a non-fee paying local secondary school. But already the extra-curricular activity costs are mounting up and we need to motivate ourselves to start saving. What do you suggest ? Colette – Lucan Co Dublin A – According to a recent UK insurance company study, it will cost over € 246,000 from the time your child is born until the time they finish their third level education. You have already spent a great deal of money on your girls – since they were born, probably, around € 130,000, but are unaware of it! €10,000 a year per child is the estimated ongoing cost. It is no wonder you cannot save.

Q&A

However, it is not going to get any better for the next few years so you MUST start saving, and now.

Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: A singer – mind you I don’t

Q: What air carrier do you use when going on holidays?

A: I am not really loyal to any

have a note in my head.

particular air carrier. I always try to get the best deal I can

Q: What was your first job?

A: Worked in a coffee shop in

A recent bank report stated third-level costs alone, from start to finish, at € 42,000 for ONE child, and that’s without the fees.

To put this into perspective, if you save the Sarah Carberry, of Secretchic.ie

Malahide.

Q: What car do you drive?

A: Mercedes

for you. My favourite drink is a Cosmo… yum, love them.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Blew it on clothes.

Q: Can you swim?

A: Yes – I love it and should do

Q: How many people do you have to talk with every day?

A: Up to 20 people.

it more often.

Q: How many times each week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’?

A: Too many!

Q: What is the greatest thrill of your working week?

A: To hear someone loved the dress or hat that they rented.

Q: And what part of your job do you dislike the most?

A: There isn’t really much I dislike. There will always be likes and dislikes of running your own company, but that is what makes it interesting.

Q: Would you ever bungee jump?

A: I used to want to do one but now I don’t think I would – way too scared.

Q: Do you play any sport?

A: I run and go to Curves and Hot Yoga

Q: What is your favourite food and drink?

A: I don’t really have a favourite food. I love most food and, in particular, food that is bad

Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes?

A: I shop for clothes on a regu-

current € 140 monthly Child Benefit for your five-

Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination?

A: Italy – amazing, love the food, scenery and the people.

Really interesting place.

Q: What other job in the whole world would you really like to have?

A: I would like to possibly be a

lar basis.

marine biologist.

Q: What is the name of your favourite shop?

A: River Island and Forever

Q: When do you wish to retire?

A: I am not sure.

21 – I can’t choose which is my favourite!

Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: I am not sure but I will have

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Over 20, and I don’t even

to be doing something, as I get bored quite easily.

wear most of them.

and Overall Business of the Year accolades at the Wexford Business Awards in 2010.

This continued recognition is illustrated by Chevron Training being shortlisted for three prestigious awards at the 2011 Wexford Business Awards, namely the Wexford Training Provider Award, Wexford Green

Business Award and the Wexford Employer of the Year Award.

Innovation

Chevron Training is honoured to have been shortlisted for each of these awards, as they acknowledge the individuals and businesses that represent the entrepreneurialism, innovation,

diversity and the talent in Wexford businesses.

Chevron Training’s innovative approach towards the delivery of training programmes is illustrated by their significant investment in the development of Ireland’s first fleet of mobile training units.

These next-generation training venues allow

year-old, add € 110 per month to it and keep saving until your child is 18, at 3% interest rate each year, over those 13 years, the monthly saving of €250 will amount to that target of €42,000, and that’s just for ONE child.

Therefore, you have to plan and plan to save.

Just like Christmas, birthdays and anniversaries – they come around every year and you have to provide for them. You certainly do not want to be the parent that stops your daughters going on that special school trip, those two weeks in Irish College, that summer camp – even that hockey stick costs at least € 70!

I would recommend that you immediately start putting the Child Benefit into a Regular Saver account (saving between € 100 and € 1,000 per month for 12 months and attracting rates up to 4% - most deposit takers offer them) and when you have accumulated at least € 2,000, deposit this into a high-yielding, 12-month fixed rate

Chevron Training launch innovative mobile training units CHEVRON Training, Ireland’s largest private training provider, is renowned as the leading provider of renewable energy and environmental training courses.

Chevron Training’s career-focused approach to the provision of training courses was instrumental in securing the coveted Best Training Company

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

the practical renewable energy and environmental training programmes to be delivered in any location nationwide, thus facilitating increased access to further education.

For further information about Chevron Training courses, lo-call 1890 252 647 or visit www.chevrontraining.ie

account.

Look for savings on everything from careful budgeting to looking for bargains – everywhere.

Remember also the Money Doctor mantra – STOP SPENDING, AND IF YOU MUST, ENSURE BEST VALUE. Ask yourself when buying a product or service, do you really need this and, if you do, is there a better or cheaper alternative ? The best of luck with your saving.

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

22 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel The west is the best for a romantic getaway trip Travel to the stunning north of Spain on a luxury train this summer on the Gran Lujo Transcantabrian

IMAGES of Hercule Poirot, cocktail hour and afternoon tea spring to mind when luxury train travel is mentioned. This mode of transport is a stunning way to see Northern Spain this summer, with several options available to the discerning traveller.

From May to September, the luxury CrossCantabrian train will travel between San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela, an eight-day journey, with seven nights on board.

The Gran Lujo Transcantabrian is one of the five best tourist trains in the world, and the oldest in Spain. It has been transformed into a spectacular and seductive five-star train-hotel. It has seven sleeping cars, four lounge cars and a kitchen car. There is an attractive panoramic lounge containing televisions, library and video library, a restaurant car and tea salon where the gastronomic specialities of each area through which the train passes are served. The four sleeping cars contain 14 elegant Privilege Suites, each of which boasts a large double bed, ample wardrobe space for clothing and suitcases, a small lounge, two TV sets, a video player, a games console, a music centre, a computer with free internet connection, cordless telephone, double air conditioning, minibar, and a full bathroom with hydromassage shower and steam sauna.

The La Robla Express in another train that has been improved and upgraded for 2011 and offers travellers fascinating visits to the worldrenowned Romanesque towns of Carrion de los Condes, Fromista and Villalcazar de Sirga. The trip, which takes four days and three nights operates from March to November.

The Las Robla Express carries 54 passengers in nine coaches, with comfortable lounge cars, and a bar with large projection screens. Sleeping compartments have couchette style fold-out beds, wardrobe, music and telephone connections and bathrooms with hydromassage shower.

For maximum comfort, the train remains stationary overnight in the stations its visits.

Further information from www.trenesturisti cosdelujo.com

MIMI MURRAY

IRISH weather, as we all know, is not to be relied upon. When Americans and Italians holiday here, they come well-prepared, not batting an eyelid when the downpour inevitably ensues.

However, for we Irish holidaying at home, it is another opportunity to screw up our noses, give the grey skies the evil eye, and curse the country of our birth.

The French and Germans throw on the windcheaters, and nod knowingly at each other when another torrent threatens, but we Irish despair as yet another trip falls foul of the weather.

For that reason, it is proper order to book yourself in somewhere luxurious, so that, when the inevitable happens, the plush indoor surroundings will more than make up for the goings on outside.

That’s not to say that we can’t button up and head for the open air on a grand, soft day – just like our foreign visitors – but for us Irish, who are so used to the constant grey and drizzle, we just expect the gods of sunshine and blue skies to shine on us when we decide to take a trip at home.

For this reason, my husband and I decided

to stay somewhere rather nice when we took a trip to the west, earlier this month.

The Atlantic coast can be stunning, but the ocean also likes to make its presence felt from time to time, as we were about to discover on our romantic weekend.

On our first night we stayed in Gregan’s Castle, which is situated in the heart of The Burren, and is surrounded by stunning gardens, with breathtaking views of Galway Bay. We arrived early on Friday, to be greeted by our host, Simon Haden. We

friendly host in Gregan’s said that should I find myself being lifted by a swift gust, to make sure to take the hubby with me.

He was only half-joking.

It was back to the hotel for some much-needed warming up, and a predinner drink, before taking our table at the pretty restaurant, which, again, had lovely views of Galway bay.

The menu seemed adventurous, but my husband and I were not prepared for what was about to come. Why does this place not have a Michelin Star, we mused?

-------------------------------------------------------

‘We retired early, but the Atlantic made an almighty racket that night – but that made us appreciate the plush surroundings and our open fire all the more’ --------------------------------------------------------

were taken straight to our extremely spacious room, which had very pretty views of both The Burren and the ocean.

We decided not to rest on our laurels, and to make good use of the slightly blue sky on offer.

The Cliffs of Moher are stunning, but a word of warning – wear winter clothes, even if it is the height of summer.

The wind whips around the headland, and our

The chef, Mickael Viljanens, who is Finnish, has been with the hotel for six years. Simon says that Michelin are watching them at the moment, but no stars have appeared just yet. I am certain this will be resolved in time.

My husband’s starter of cheese and onion was a delicious broth and cheese combo that was warming on a chilly day, and my lobster was delicious.

The pigeon, which I ordered with some trepidation, as it was to be cooked very pink, was stunning. I am still dreaming about it. My hubby’s lamb was equally good, and all of the flavours are experimental, but work really well together.

A pre dessert of lime panna cotta with fennel was extraordinary, and the entire meal was a triumph. I would highly recommend this place to gourmands looking for somewhere fantastic in the west.

After a delicious meal, we took a seat beside the open fire to pore over the Queen’s visit, before retiring early.

On Saturday, we awoke to torrential rain and gales, and a surfing lesson which we had booked for that day was looking extremely unlikely.

My brave other half decided he was going to give it a lash anyway, but I decided the open fires and beautiful views at our next hotel, Moy House, were calling to me instead.

He went off to Lahinch beach for a lesson with Ben’s Surf Clinic, as I reviewed the Saturday papers, while sipping a peppermint tea.

We were staying in the Well Room, which features an original underground well, and a free-

A lovely break in Gregan’s

standing bath tub, as well as an open fire – all you could need for a romantic weekend in the west of Ireland.

Our well-lit conservatory offered amazing views of the ocean, and the dinner area also overlooks the sea, and we were to be treated to a sunset of sorts after the weather cleared – slightly.

Salad of crab and Dublin Bay prawns was very nice, as were his scallops. My lamb was delicious, and my husband said the turbot was a lovely light dish. The staff were really attentive and lovely as well.

We retired early, but the Atlantic had other ideas for us, and it made an almighty racket that night, but that made us appreciate the plush surroundings and our open fire all the more.

For information on both properties, see www. irelands-blue-book.ie.

R1

26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Mary Black performing at Bridge House Hotel in June MARY Black is back and performing in the Bridge House Hotel in Offaly this June.

The singer has just released her new album after a six-year gap and to celebrate, the hotel is offering guests the chance to dine, see the show and stay overnight. At her concert in the Bridge House Hotel, Mary will give a taste of her new material along with some classic hits including No Frontier, Woman’s Heart and many more.

Tickets are available for €25, but guests can treat themselves to an overnight stay and dinner in the Bridge House’s Michelin Guide recommended restaurant, including a ticket to the show for €109 per person sharing.

Also coming to the Bridge House Hotel on August 1 is a night with the Wolfe Tones. Tickets are available for €25 or stay overnight with dinner and a ticket to the show for €99 per person sharing. For more information, contact the Bridge House Hotel on 057 932 5600 or visit www.bridgehouse.com.

Mustard Seed Hotel offers a special Box Room offer

Castle (above, and below) was followed with an equally delightful break at Moy House (below, right)

THE Mustard Seed Hotel in Limerick has a special Box Room Offer running at the moment. One of the Blue Book’s stunning hotels, the package allows guests to stay in one of the smaller, but perfectly formed rooms at a reduced rate. Relax during the evening and avail of the hotels excellent overnight rate.

Rooms include en suite with power shower, TV, telephone and regular size double bed. Rate also include full Irish breakfast. Four course dinner costs €63, or there are special value menus available. Rooms cost €65 per person sharing. For more details contact 069 68508 or email mustard@indigo.ie.

Park Hotel offers two-night package during The Tall Ship Races THE Tall Ships are set to sail into Dungarven this June, with three extraordinary days of festival taking place, and the Park Hotel is the perfect place to stay in order to be in the thick of the action. After three exciting days from June 30 to July 3, a Parade of Sail will take place along the Waterford and Wexford estuary, as Ireland once again hosts The Tall Ships Races.

This is one of the most spectacular and colourful events in the world, and Waterford is gearing up to host over 70 majestic Tall Ships; 1,500 sail trainees and an anticipated 500,000 maritime, music and festival fans on the quays of Ireland’s oldest city. The Park Hotel has a two night package with full Irish breakfast each morning from €129pps, subject to availability. For information visit www.flynnhotels.com.

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT THE HELIX 01 700 7000 YOPS and friends MUSIC returns to The Helix with a delightful performance from Young Orchestral Pops orchestra, and friends. The Young Orchestral Pops – also known as Yops – will be demonstrating the skills that has seen them performing in such notable venues as Dublin Castle, the Salt mines in Krakow and St Nicholas’ church in Prague, and will be joining with St Clare’s PS children’s choir, Harold’s Cross, and flute group, Flutistics, to perform a selection of light classical, popular and traditional favourites With tickets priced at €12, the concert starts at 3pm on Sunday, May 29.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Time Warp TAKE2 Performing Arts School will draw upon the members’ considerable talents to present Time Warp – A Trip And Tweet through the decades.

Using song, dance and performance, the Take2 members will present a memorable trip through time, presenting some memorable events and eras with ease, giving the audience something to think – and Tweet – about. Time Warp runs at 6pm on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29, with admission priced €12.50/€8.50.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Bealtaine 2011

“You better think how to hide the evidence of a house party before mom comes home ...” Greg (Zachary Gordon) temporarily has the

THE annual festival that commemorates older members of the community, Bealtaine is once again being commemorated at Draiocht with a range of events, before drawing to a close on Tuesday, May 31. With a wide-ranging programme of events, Draiocht has imaginatively marked and celebrated the wit, wisdom, skills and contribution of our elders, with events in everything from cinema to dance to highlight the importance of older citizens. To see the remaining events, and to help mark Bealtaine, see www.draiocht.ie.

advantage over his older brother, and chief tormentor, Rodrick (Devon Bostick), in an inoffensive new family film

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Gala Summer Concerts WITH summer just a ray of sunshine away, the Pavilion Theatre plays host to Dun Laoghaire School of Music, who are hosting their 18th annual gala summer concerts, marking a musical treat for all.

With students ranging from the very young to mature musicians, the School will showcase some of the varied activities and musical styles studied and practised, all presented in a delightful programme that will cover a wide range of music, ushering in the summer in style. The concerts will be held at 5pm and 7.30pm, on Friday, May 27, with admission priced at €16, €12 and €9.50.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Grumpy Old Women THESE ladies are not to be messed with, as they are treading the (creaking) boards to bring some middleaged mayhem to life and settle some scores they have with aging, men, the way things work and much more, in bad-tempered, contrary and hilarious ways.

They don’t come much grumpier than Adele King, Flo McSweeney and Una Crawford O’Brien, who are presenting their version of the hit West End show with a distinctly Irish version. Grumpy Old Women is running until Saturday, May 28, with tickets priced from €25 to €30.

Not awesome/awful Kate’s heavyweight opinion squares up to A Wimpy Kid – but, she says, the kid’s not brilliant, but he’s all right ...

Q KATE CROWLEY

WHILE older Gazette viewers may rejoice at the release of The Hangover: Part 2 – Sorry folks, that’s not what I’m reviewing.

Instead, as tempting as it is to wander along with shmucks with bucks and drinks, I’m going to wimp out, and talk about Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, instead.

After all, it’s been a while since we’ve had a kid movie, so, let’s tag along with an Americanstyle “wimpy” kid ...

To use its full title, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules is the sequel to an earlier children’s film which, being 103, I haven’t seen, which means I’m approaching this with fresh, if somewhat lined, eyes.

In a somewhat busy film, a young kid Greg (Zachary Gordon) is having a typically awful time with his older brother,

FILM OF THE WEEK: Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2 +++ (G) 98 mins Director: David Bowers Starring: Zachary Gordon, Devon Bostick, Rachael Harris, lots and lots of ordinary children, US movie-style

OUR VERDICT: ALTHOUGH, perhaps, a little baffling to older viewers who may have forgetten the trials and tribulations of trying to fit in at school, and deal with older/younger siblings, as well as being steeped in Americana, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules is okay. Neither brilliant nor awful, it’s a middling film that should entertain well enough, until something better comes along ...

the much-hated Rodrick (Devon Bostick), whose sole purpose in life seems to be to torment him. So far, so older brother.

Greg’s life is hard enough, seeing as he’s firmly locked into his school’s nerd squad; a gang comprising the usual suspects of Fat Kid, Indian Transfer Student, Bizarre Geek, and so on.

Compared to this bunch of carefree “losers”, Greg is positively normal, but he just can’t get along with Rodrick.

When their parents disappear for a weekend, leaving the boys behind

to bond (social workers can step back from the rescue wagon, as I should point out that Rodrick’s old enough to be Greg’s responsible guardian for a few days – in theory, at least), an inevitable house party sees the house filled with unruly teens, while the geeks also use Greg as their Trojan horse to get inside, and chaos ensues.

The next day, with their parents’ inevitable call to say they’re coming home early, the boys have to frantically cover up the evidence of the party, and just about get away with it, too, earning Greg

some respect from his big brother.

For a while. But, Ferris Bueller-types they are not; lacking that character’s guile, the party is soon uncovered, and the boys are immediately back to their battling selves, with Greg trying to become cool at school, and Rodrick trying to impress with his band.

Events roll along, all leading up towards a climactic talent show that both brothers want to win. Now, how can Greg impress with a magic act that might make Paul Daniels hesitate, and is Rodrick really someone that his band still want playing along in their chance for a big break?

Perhaps it’s time for “a wimpy kid” to show that other people don’t know the things he can really do, and that he can even impress his older brother.

Now, that really would be magic ...

Despite my great age

and immediately obvious wisdom, I confess that I’m still permanently baffled by the American grade system, or how their schools work, or how or why the kids in these films are always obssessed with breaking out of their school’s caste/social strata system, so, in my worst nu-speak, I can’t find many of these situations “relatable”.

It’s all harmless enough family fare; predictable and inoffensive, but I imagine that plenty of children will find it amusing enough – though not, I’m sure, to be really great.

On the plus side, even though it feels like a glorified TV movie, rather than a must-see children’s film, at least it’s not A) another lame computer animated film; B) presented in clumsily implemented 3D; and C) is unlikely to give any older viewers a headache.

Or a hangover.

26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

Talking about Mona make Microsoft’s a brisk debut Skype deal MUSIC: ONES TO WATCH

ROB HEIGH news@gazettegroup.com

ADAM MAGUIRE

IN WHAT is one of the biggest ever tech deals, Microsoft has bought video and voice chatting service, Skype, for €8 billion.

The deal raised plenty of eyebrows, and is sure to have left Google and Facebook, both of whom were rumoured to be interested, too, scratching their heads.

So, what does Microsoft want with Skype?

There are plenty of ways to chat with people online, but Skype is one of the best.

Over the years, it has developed a robust system to let people talk via voice and video calls, and it even rivals standard landline phones when it comes to quality.

Microsoft will use this as a feature to add to its own products. It will likely become a built-in feature of Windows. and even the Xbox 360 console in the future.

Skype will integrate well with the webcams Microsoft sells, and it will probably tie in with Microsoft’s mobile phone platform eventually too.

Millions of users Skype has more than 660 million registered users of the service and, while Skype has a free option, a handful of them pay to gain extra features, such as calls to landlines.

Microsoft will likely try to encourage those users to try out other things it makes in the future.

Talk is social Microsoft has not done too well in social media so far – Facebook, and Twitter, have stolen the

show, there.

While Skype is not a social network in itself, it is certainly full of potential as a part of a wider social network in the future.

If Microsoft can integrate Skype into a website of its own, it could gain an edge over others on the market

Playing defence Reports were swirling around in recent weeks that Facebook and Google wanted to strike deals with Skype to integrate the product into services they already had.

Microsoft, which sees both these companies as its main online rivals, swooped to snatch up Skype before anyone else could. In the long run, it might prove to be the smartest move they have made in a long time.

HP Photosmart Premium c310a The HP Photosmart Premium c310a (above) packs in a whole host of features that will make you wonder if you have a computer, as opposed to a printer, as it is a “web connected” printer.

This device’s unique

selling point is its direct access to smartphone-like apps, which offer unique and printable content that can be downloaded and installed straight onto the printer, meaning you do not need a computer to be connected, and offers some novel features and handy resources.

For example, one app will let you print off pictures of cartoon characters for children to colour in; another will let you print off maps, and so on.

The printer is also AirPrint-ready, meaning it will print documents and files directly from an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, without any setting up required.

Of course, you can still print something the “oldfashioned way” – it is easy to connect to a computer, or even across a network, while the device also accepts USB keys and SD cards at the front.

The device is quick and quiet and, as the name suggests, it does a good job of photos, too. It is a bit pricey, though, and may not appeal to everyone. The HP Photosmart Premium is available online for €200 at www. store.apple.com/ie.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

MANAGED by the guru behind the rise of Suede, and with a safe pair of hands on the mixing desk in the form of Muse and Foo Fighters producer, Rich Costey, the self-recorded and self-produced, self-titled debut album from Nashville’s Mona finally hits the streets this week.

Having been tipped as ones to watch since last autumn, the Tennessee tyros first platter arrives with 11 tracks that drip with attitude.

The immense weight that comes from the NME, MTV and BBC

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voting you as ones to watch in 2011 hangs in the background, but you sense that there is something in the mix that might just see Mona rise above the hype.

The album does not hang about in making its point – clocking in at a brisk 35 minutes – that this is a band packed with an infectious energy and the tunes to drive it home.

Lead tracks, like Listen To Your Love, and Trouble On The Way, show their straightforward rock leanings, but Lines In The Sand demonstrate that Mona already know their way around an anthem.

Mona are releasing their debut album

As with all good debuts, the question is, where do they go from here?

They have a formula that does not need tinkering with; their power pop/alt rock shapes will have an immediate audience, and their support slot at Slane next weekend will give them a shot at a wider base than their recent gig at Whelan’s allowed.

Comparisons will endure with Kings of Leon – the Followills also being from Mona’s

home state of Tennessee.

There is a certain similarity, but they have more in common with Rocket From The Crypt – propulsive rock delivered with a snarl, and hearts-on-sleeves, and looking like they are the coolest gang in town.

Given the space and time to develop their obvious strengths, there’s every chance that they will achieve their intention of being the purveyors of romantic rock‘n’roll for city folk for years to come.

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

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26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

MAY WE SUGGEST?

This month’s Sports Awards nominees are announced: Page 29

ATHLETICS: LOCAL COMPETITORS TAKE TITLES AT THE LEINSTER SCHOOLS’ EVENT

Buttner claims track and field double at Morton sport@gazettegroup.com

COLAISTE Iosagain’s Siofra Cleirigh-Buttner produced yet another starring performance at last Saturday’s AVIVA Leinster Schools’ Track and Field Championships in Morton Stadium when she bagged both the 800m and 1,500m titles.

The intermediate runner has been one of the stand-out performers at underage level over the past few years and the

Irish international added this double to a series of cross-country titles won in the winter season.

The longer distance was slightly closer than the first, coming home with 11 seconds to spare on Pres Kilkenny’s Megan Morrissey in a time of 5.02.48 with Mount Sackville’s Aoibhin Dowdall taking bronze.

In the 800m, she kept the challenge of Dublin underage ladies’ footballer Sarah Hawkshaw

– a Mount Sackville representative on the day – with a time of 2.08.27.

It means the CleirighButtner will compete for All-Ireland glory in early June in Tullamore.

Elsewhere, the second day of competition was an impressive one for the Rathdown school in Glenageary who claimed three gold medals, excelling in the pole-vault.

Leinster school’s hockey representative, Orla Macken, won the senior

Siofra Clerigh-Buttner, who claimed both the 800 and 1,500m titles in the schools’ track event

title while Eve Blake led a one-two at intermediate level.

Ailbhe Kelleher – in the intermediate triple jump – made it a hat-trick with a best final distance of 10.19 metres.

Her clearance of 2.30m saw her home by one level from schoolmate Rachel Swan who recorded a jump of 2.20m. Malahide CS’ schoolgirl Lizzie McDowell was third.

Blackrock College’s

Oliver Jager continued his glittering school’s sporting year as he added a couple of medals to the JCT title he helped annex for his school in March over St Michael’s.

The back row showed

his strength once more in the throwing disciplines.

His shot distance of 14.09 metres was well clear of Rathangan’s James Mulligan, while Jager added bronze with a 35.32m length in the discus.

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport Feature

O’Hanlon in red heaven as Liverpool FC swoop Kenny Dalglish made his first signing as permanent coach at Anfield last week, and it was Blanchardstown native, Alex O’Hanlon. ROB HEIGH looks at the meteoric rise of the sought-after young player Amid the hoopla of State visits, rugby miracles and Jedward, a story that might have slipped your attention was Kenny Dlaglish’s first signing as permanent manager at Liverpool FC.

The subject of the signing is Alex O’Hanlon, a 15-yearold star from St Kevin’s Boys, whose list of former players includes Liam Brady, Damien Duff, Stephen Carr and Ian Harte.

Alex has been drawing attention from a number of sides in recent years, but that attention has become more intense in recent years as he has developed as a player. Alex has grown in stature,

playing as a part of the Manchester City. But He played for St Kevin’s DDSL which won the he got a good feeling at where he has been playKennedy Cup last year, Liverpool, and they said ing since he was 12, and recently captained that no matter what it playing for their Underthe Republic’s Under-15 took, they wanted to 13s. He played for the side against Belgium. have him as a part of DDSL side who won Speaking exclusively the Anfield set-up. the Kennedy Cup,” said to GazetteSport last “ K e n n y D a l g l i s h Dominic. week, Alex’s father, called me yesterday, and “St Kevin’s have won Dominic, was under- said in passing that we the league for the fourth standably thrilled about have created a little bit year running, U-11, 12, the most recent devel-------------------------------------------------------opment in Alex’s soccer career.

“The last 12 months has been frantic, with some 23 clubs looking to get his signature. The list was then whittled down to the top seven.

He spent a week at Real -------------------------------------------------------Madrid, and was the first boy from Ireland or of history, as Alex is the 13 and 14 in the DDSL England to go on trial at first player that I have Premier division, which Real, which is amazing. signed since becoming is a great achievement.

“He spent time at the permanent manager “He has also played Chelsea, he was there at Liverpool, which he for Ireland, and he capthree times, and played will have for the rest of tained the Irish Undertime for their youth his career.”

15 s i d e w h o p l ay e d team. He also had Liam Alex has been on against Belgium a few Brady take him under a meteoric rise since weeks ago.” his wing [as head of the start of his soccer Brendan BermingYouth Development at career. ham, secretar y of St Arsenal], and there was “He started out play- Kevin’s Boys, said: “Alex an offer on the table ing for Home Farm’s is very highly thought f r o m A r s e n a l , f r o m Under-7s and Under-9s. of. He’s an excellent Manchester United, From there, he started full-back and hopefully Everton, Aston Villa, playing for Shelbourne. he might turn out like

‘The Liverpool set-up is very structured. He has signed for the right club at the right time, and he will get a chance to make his mark there’

Alex O’Hanlon captained the Ireland Under-15s against Belgium recently

Gareth Bale.

“He’s got a really good attitude, quiet and unassuming. He’s just football, football, football.”

Dominic continues: “Alex is a very downto-earth kid, and this attention won’t turn his head at all.

“He will move over to Liverpool in July, and, before that, he will travel with the club to the Amsterdam Cup, where Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United’s Under-17 sides will be playing.

“He as 15 three weeks ago, but he will go straight to the Under18s at Liverpool. He will be travelling with the reserves next season.

“There are a lot of high hopes for him. The Liverpool set-up is very structured, and it was always about where he was going to thrive and develop as a player. He has signed for the right club at the right time, and he will get a chance there.”

26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

in association with

FastSport

ASDFASDF: SASDF ASDFASD FDSAF SDA

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - MAY NOMINEES IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof the

Locals lift Leinster to Heineken Cup glory

MONTH

LOCAL stars, captain Leo Cullen, Luke Fitzgerald, Brian O’Driscoll, Shane Jennings Xxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz zz x xxylyx. Xxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz Devon Toner were among the Leinster zzand x xxylyx.

Picture: Xxxxx Zzzzzz

RYAN O’DWYER

SIOFRA BUTTNER

NUALA MURPHY

KILMACUD Crokes’ star Ryan O’Dwyer produced a truly outstanding performance to help Dublin annex their first National Hurling League division one title since the 1930s. He was named manof-the-match in the Dubs’ comprehensive 0-22 to 1-7 success over Kilkenny.

THE COLAISTE Iosagain student continues to set the pace in Leinster schools’ middle-distance running, adding the 800m and 1,500m titles at the recent Track and Field championships to her collection. She goes in search of national glory in early June.

RECENTLY returned from a year out injured, Trojan swimmer Murphy shone at the National Long-Course swimming championships at the NAC. She romped to the 1,500m freestyle gold as well as medalling in the 400m event in the face of top class opposition.

+ TEAMof the MONTH

SWORDS CELTIC

BLANCH FC

LUCAN CAMOGIE

SWORDS Celtic enjoyed a memorable month, claiming nine league and cup titles across the various NDSL and DDSL competitions in a bumper three-week period.

The titles ranged from U-8 up to U-17 level, with several Premier gongs.

FC BLANCH secured their second league title in a row, adding to a famous year for the club in their first year in the AUL, the newcomers celebrating their 10th anniversary in style, reaching the last 32 of the FAI Junior Cup.

LUCAN’S dominance in Community Games camogie continued to an unprecedented fifth year as the village produced yet another emphatic display. In their semi-final and finals, they notched and astonishing 11-7 to no-score.

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s May spor ting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

With spring’s awakenings making way for summer sun, we’re delighted to once again

be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dublin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of wellknown, and some less prominent sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and

gives an impression of the diversity of sporting commitment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes in the month of May, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

stars who claimed the Heineken Cup in Cardiff last weekend, coming from behind with a mammoth second-half performance to outstrip Northampton.

The side were given a hero’s welcome on their return to Dublin on Sunday at the RDS and were presented to the faithful supporters unable to make the trip to Cardiff.

asdf asdf sa dfdsasd fdas fdasf Special coursedasdfd for budding Triathletes IF YOU’RE female, over 18, and would love to do your first triathlon, the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership and Triathlon Ireland are hosting a beginners’ workshop to provide you with all you need to know to take part in your first event, on the weekend of June 11 at Meadowbrook Leisure Centre in Ballinteer.

Triathlons have grown from 30 events in 2007, involving 600 members, to 131 events and over 5,500 members in less than five years according to Triathlon Ireland.

Both newbies and members contributed to a target of 20,000 participants in 2010.

Events take place across the country from early spring to late summer and, last year, Athlone hosted

the first Irish ITU championship which drew an international crowd. There are high hopes for our own fine athletes to be among the top competitors in London 2012.

Patricia Murphy, a local sports and health and fitness consultant to the houses of the Oireachtas, is calling on people interested in taking part in a triathlon to come along to this special event, at which she will give guidance on equipment, training and nutrition advice, biking, running and swimming techniques, and race preparation.

You’re then ready to take part in your first local race and put your new skills into action - the Focus Ireland Triathlon - on July 31 in Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

To register for this one day workshop or for more information, contact DLRSP at 01 271 9502 or sportspartnership@ dlrcoco.ie

300 wds

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Trap s the Gazette: Ireland boss launches FAI press awards REPUBLIC of Ireland manager Gio-

Festival of cricket being held by Malahide CC AN exciting two weeks of cricket festivals commenced this week with blitzes being held throughout Fingal. The Swords/Malahide Cricket Blitz for 4th class pupils took place on Tuesday, May 24, with the 5th class event set to be held on Tuesday, May 31. The two events are hosted by Malahide Cricket Club and will run from 10am to 2pm. The schools participating are St Andrew’s NS, Pope John Paul’s NS, Oliver Plunkett’s NS in Malahide, Old Borough NS, Swords Educate Together, St Cronin’s NS, Holy Family NS , St Colmcille’s BNS in Swords and Burrow NS in Sutton.

Keane picked for European championship AER Lingus swimmer Ellen Keane has been named in the Irish squad for the IPC Swimming European Championship which takes place from July 3-10 in Berlin.

She is part of a tenperson squad for the event which forms part of the qualification for the 2012 London Paralympic Games.

Commenting on the selection of the team, David Malone, Team Manager said: “This European Swimming Championships looks set to be the largest ever with more than 450 swimmers set to take part from over 39 countries.

Our swimmers will be competing to make finals and compete for medals, but also to meet qualification times for the London 2012

vanni Trapattoni showed where his allegiance lies at the launch of Three FAI Communications awards at the Hilton Airport Hotel last week.

The awards have been introduced to acknowledge the excellent work at local, regional and national level by clubs, leagues, affiliates, jounalists, photographers and media organisations in their reporting of soccer.

For more information about the awards, contact awards@fai.ie

FAI FIVE-A-SIDE: PLUNKETT’S TAKE TITLE IN NAVAN FINALS

Paralympic games, so we expect the level of competition to be extremely high, we are looking forward to a really exciting swimming meet.”

Rivals to fight for league title in NDSL U-7As RIVERVALLEY Rangers and Swords Manor will battle it out for top spot in the NDSL U-7A title following the former’s excellent 4-1 success against Swords Celtic.

Ben O’Brien’s fine volley, coupled with Mayowa Adokun’s hat-trick, put Rivervalley into first place going into the final game of the season, leading Manor by a single point.

They face Swords Celtic in the final game of the season on Saturday needing a win to take the title.

A flawless run through the group stages saw St Oliver PLunkett’s set up for the final stages of the competition

School wins Leinster title sport@gazettegroup.com

ST OLIVER Plunkett’s NS picked up the crown in the Girls “B” Section for medium schools in the Leinster finals of the FAI Schools 5-a-side competition last Thursday at the stunning surrounds of the MDL Grounds in Navan.

A clean sweep in the group stages saw the girls top the table with St. Colman’s of Mullingar doing the Westmeath County proud with a second place finish.

Plunkett’s began the day with a fine 3-1 success against eventual runners-up, Colman’s, in the group’s first game

and were in a strong position when they followed up with a 4-0 victory over Presentation NS, Kildare.

From there, they needed just a draw to take the title but they confidently disposed of St Ibar’s NS, Castlebridge in their third tie to sweep the boards in the four-team competition.

The event itself saw over 16,000 children participate during the past year — the biggest ever entry since its inception in the mid1990s with the event more popular than ever with 1,005 schools involved in 2010.

T h e FA I S c h o o l s

5-a-Side is the biggest and best competition in the 2011 Primar y Schools Soccer Calendar with five divisions to suit all school sizes.

While FAI Schools encourage boys and girls to play on the same team, there is also a separate competition for girls’ schools in which St Oliver Plunkett’s took their place.

A number of teams can represent one school depending on the size of their student body, giving more children the chance to develop their skills in a safe, child-centred and exciting environment.

The Malahide school

were among 20 schools from Leinster to make it through to the final day of competition and compete for the provinicial honours from whom the five successful sides will now travel to the National Finals, which will be held in Leah Victoria Park, Tullamore, on Wednesday, June 1.

Plunkett’s will be joined there by Scoil Naomh Aine, Wexford, who captured the Boys “B” title while neighbouring outfit, Bree NS, snatched the Girls “A” Cup in fine style.

Both Wexford champions had three clean wins in their group,

topping their respective tables on six points each with a powerful 13-goal tally for Scoil Naomh Aine and similarly for the Bree girls only conceding once to last year’s stars, Durrow NS. Carlow’s Bishop Foley NS were delighted to capture the Leinster title after a nine-goal spree saw the side pick up all six points on offer. Runners-up in that group by goal difference were Ballyroan NS who just edged Maynooth NS to the riches.

Milltown NS, based in Westmeath, won the small schools category of the Boys “A” Section.

26 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

GAELIC GAMES: MIXED FORTUNES FOR LOCAL SIDES

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS THERE was an important League win

Brandon Brady, Hugh Lawlor and

for our senior footballers against

team managers Margaret Bolger

Raheny. There were also victories for

and Sue Cullen. Also Cian for winning

our U-14 hurlers and a great week for

the 60m.

New: Follow the club on Twitter.

the junior ladies’ team with a historical win over Fingal Ravens to remain

www.twitter.com The club golf society held their first

top of the league.

The future looks bright as our U-9 footballers won their blitz in style.

The minor panel are going into their summer break on top of the table

outing on Friday in Malahide GC. 1st Gary McCallion, 2nd Eoin Cullen and 3rd Peter Flynn. Visitor 1st Prize Richie Rodgers.

after their victory over St Maur’s.

The next outing will take place in

The best of luck to all our players

Ashbourne golf club on Friday, June

who are in exam mode for the next

24.

Great chance for people to

couple of weeks.

Fingal’s hurlers were no match for London’s exiles on the day when the sides faced off in Ruislip

Rackard ruin for Fingal’s finest NICKY RACKARD CUP London 1-29 Fingal 1-5 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL’S run in the Nicky Rackard Cup came to a crashing halt as London justified their favourites tag in emphatic fashion in Ruislip last Saturday with a 24-point margin to spare over the North Dublin region.

Following a week disr upted by player unavailability for training due to the visit of Queen Elizabeth and the increased garda presence seeing players needed elsewhere, it was a tough week of preparation for Ben Dorney’s side.

And, in front of a crowd of less than 100 people, the lack of cohesive build-up was preyed upon by the Londoners early on as they restricted the visitors to two points in the first half whilst helping themselves to an impressive

1-22.

Fingal’s lot improved but not by a huge amount as London cleared the bar a further seven times without reply.

But a late rally in the second half saw Fingal grab a trio of points and an Aodan McEnerney goal from a free gave Fingal a slightly more respectable standing on the scoreboard.

John-Matthew Sheridan returned from injury to clip over a couple of frees, too, while Mick Cussen and Niall Ring got the other scores but, otherwise, it was a chastening afternoon for Fingal to end their lively season.

London advance to the final, though, hoping to make amends for last year’s final loss to Armagh and look favourites to get the better of Louth who overcame Monaghan in the second semi-final in Clones.

On the footballing side, though, it was

a good weekend for the region’s sides in league matches as Fingal Ravens picked off a good victory over Templeogue Synge Street while Fingallians moved up to second in AFL2.

For Mick Deegan’s Ravens, they netted four times against impressive newly promoted side Templeogue Synge Street to move up to fourth in AFL1.

Warren Finnegan, Niall Tormey, Stephen M a d i g a n a n d K i e ran Norton all netted majors at Dolphin Park, building on the base put in place by the everreliable Darren Daly

– released from Dublin duty – along with Martin Flanagan in midfield.

With just one defeat to date and not a huge presence in the Dublin intercounty sides over the next couple of months, should they manage to avoid the injuries which plagued 2010, the Rolestown outfit may be contemplating a playoff place.

Fingallians will be hoping to join them in the top tier after a couple of years absence and they have begun the league in decent fashion, running up three wins already.

In athletics, well done to our U-11

improve/brush up their Irish for free

boys team winning bronze in the

in a relaxed setting. No pressure on

Dublin Relay championships at Tal-

anybody. Irish conversation group

laght Track: members Cian Bolger,

each Wednesday at 9pm in club-

Aaron Cullen, Nathan Czechowski,

house. All levels of fluency welcome.

FINGAL RAVENS ANNUAL golf classic is on next Sat-

Well done to Rolestown school girls’

urday, May 28, in Swords Open,

team on winning their final last week

price is now only €200 for a team of

in Parnell Park.

Good win on Saturday for our sen-

four, which includes a meal in Kettle’s Hotel afterward.

Con t ac t Pat Kinsella on 0 8 7-

ior team away to Templeogue SS in the league.

Div 5 team drew with Innisfails last

9313045 to book your tee times.

Anyone interested in sponsoring a

Tuesday.

tee, donating a spot-prize or giving

Div 10N team had a good win

a hand on the day, contact Maura

at h o m e o n T hur s d a y a g a in s t

Norton on 087-9936458.

O’Dwyers, and drew with Naomh

U-11s had a great trip to Dingle last

Fionnbarra away on Sunday.

weekend, and huge thanks to Mick,

Anyone that has All-Ireland foot-

Pat and Paul and to Carl for organis-

ball prediction forms please get

ing the trip. They played three games

them to any committee member

against An Daingean, Dr Crokes and

ASAP.

Castleisland Desmonds and won two

We would like to send our sympa-

of their games. Daingean, Dr Crokes

thies to the O’Brien and Hannigan

and Castleisland Desmonds (two

family on the death of Catherine

wins, one defeat)

(Kitty) Hannigan.

ST FINIAN’S (SWORDS) MEMBERSHIPS are overdue. Remember you must be a fully paid up member to obtain tickets for Dublin matches through the club.

to 12.30pm.

All bags will be collected at 1.30pm This is a great fundraiser with minimum input. Please support.

The lotto numbers drawn last week

A cake and book sale will take place

were 7, 11, 22 and 24. There was no win-

in the clubhouse on Saturday, June 11

ner of the jackpot worth €4,900. The

from 11.30am.

€50 winners were Liz and Dave Dan-

Donations of cakes and books can be

iels and Michael J Kelly. Next week, the

left in the clubhouse on the morning of

jackpot will be €5,000.

June 11 from 10.30am. We hope that all

Following the success of our last

teams will support this event.

clothing collection, another date

Girls’ night on June 11 at 8pm:

has been fixed for Saturday June

Renowned make-up ar tist Lisa

11. We need you to donate your clean

O’Connor of TV3, MTV Awards, All Ire-

unwanted clothes, bed linen, old

land Talent Show, will give a mak- up

duvets, pillows, towels, including bags,

masterclass with her range of make-

shoes belts and soft toys. Clothes can

up, Warpaint (www.warpaint.ie)

be dropped off to clubhouse at following times: Tuesday, June 7 to 10 from 7.30pm to 9pm; Saturday, June 11 from 10.30am

A glass of wine and nibbles, bar will be open with wine by the bottle and by the glass available. Opportunity to purchase Warpaint on the night.

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

RAVENS ON THE WING: Local teams on the rise in leagues after good wins P31

swordssport@gazettegroup.com

AER Lingus Swim Club is set for an exciting summer as Ellen Keane became the latest club member to have her place confirmed in an Irish squad for an international event.

The 2008 Paralympian will begin her bid to get to London 2012 in July following her inclusion in the Ireland squad taking their place in competition at the IPC Swimming European Championships which will takes place in July in Berlin.

She was announced as part of an 11-person team to travel to the event, which is part of the qualification process for

the Games.

Keane joins club mates Sean O’Brien, Conor Turner and Barry Murphy, who will all take part in either continental or world-level events in the coming months following outstanding recent performances.

Commenting on Keane’s selection of the team, David Malone, Ireland’s Paralympic team manager explains the dual importance of these European championships: “We have selected a very strong team to represent Ireland at the 2011 IPC European swimming Championships; the team has a great mix of youth and experience

SUPER STARS: May award nominees revealed inside P29

Ellen Keane will be part of Ireland’s squad in Berlin

with four of the athletes going to compete in their first European championships.

“This European Swimming Championships looks set to be the largest ever, with more than 450 swimmers set to take part from over 39 countries.

“Our swimmers will be competing to make finals and compete for medals, but also to meet qualification times for the London 2012 Paralympic games, so we expect the level of competition to be extremely high, we are looking forward to a really exciting swimming meet.”

She will be joined on the international stage by O’Brien, who produced an outstanding

performance a fortnight ago.

Competing at the Irish long-course championships, O’Brien surpassed the qualifying time for the European Youth Olympics, too, which takes place in Trabzon,Turkey.

He did so in both the 200m and 400m individual medley, to become part of a sevenstrong Irish squad travelling to July’s competition.

With Conor Turner already qualified for the European Junior Long Course Championships in Belgrade, and rising star Barry Murphy set to represent the club on the highest stage at the world senior long-course champi-

onships in Shanghai, it makes for a bumper year.

At those Irish championships, the ALSAA club enjoyed plenty more success, with finalists and eventual medal winners.

Catrina English maintained her composure and led from start to finish, collecting gold in the 200m breastroke. She also claimed bronze in the 100m breastroke.

Aisling Reid pulled off a great result in winning the 200m IM B Final. Rounding off a successful weekend, Andrew Meegan’s smooth stroke won silver in both the 100m butterfly and 400m freestyle.

GazetteSPORT

Aer Lingus star Keane targets Paralympic squad slot

MAY 26, 2011